5 Ways to Care for a Friend Struggling with Anxiety

Anxiety is the most common mental health condition in the world. As a result, it should come as no surprise that there are plenty of treatment options. Different medications and types of therapy can make it easier for someone to get to the root of their anxious thoughts and help them work through the symptoms. Of course, no one can be in therapy all the time. For some people, anxiety is a 24/7 issue, and when you feel like you have to handle it alone, it can become even more overwhelming.

If you have a friend (or family member) struggling with anxiety, there are things you can do to care for them and offer the support they truly need. Let’s take a look at five things you can do to help a friend who is dealing with the effects of anxiety.

1. Let Them Be Anxious

One of the biggest mistakes people make when trying to “help” someone with anxiety is assuming the person chooses to feel that way. Let your friend know that it’s okay for them to feel their feelings. They can be anxious around you, and they don’t have to change who they are. Sometimes, that reassurance can actually have a calming effect and help them manage their fears more easily.

2. Provide a Distraction

Simply keeping your friend company can be a great way to help their anxiety. Your presence and conversation can serve as a distraction from the fearful thoughts and worries they’re experiencing. You can take things one step further by offering to do something with them that can keep their mind busy. Go on a walk together, go to a museum, see a show, or go to their favorite restaurant for lunch. Distractions don’t completely take the anxiety away, but they can provide moments of respite and help your friend feel like they have more control.

3. Help Them Find a Bigger Purpose

Consider volunteering with your friend for a community service project or signing up at a local animal shelter, homeless center, etc. These types of activities don’t just serve as distractions. They can help your friend find meaning and provide a sense of relaxation, knowing they’re helping others. Additionally, volunteering is a great way to boost someone’s happiness and improve their gratitude. Those are both wonderful weapons to fight back against anxiety.

4. Ask Them to Open Up

It’s not uncommon for people with anxiety to keep their thoughts, feelings, and fears to themselves. They might be worried about being “judged.” Or that they might be looked at differently by the people they love if they open up about their fears. Offer your support no matter what. Encourage them to open up to you if they feel comfortable doing so. Assure them that you’re willing to help with whatever problems they might be facing. You’re not there to pass judgment, no matter what they’re struggling with.

5. Take Care of Yourself

It’s not always easy to see someone you care about struggling with anxiety. You want to do whatever you can to help and support them, but depending on how deep their fears go, it can be an exhausting effort. 

Caring for others is a rewarding but heavy load. So, don’t forget to take care of yourself. You can’t pour from an empty cup, and you won’t be able to care for your friend effectively if you’re burnt out or overwhelmed. Practice self-care, maintain your own mental health, and encourage your friend to seek out the guidance of a professional if they continue to struggle. It’s also not a bad idea for you to seek out anxiety therapy. Contact our office so we can share your burden and keep you healthy in the process.